Model Tested: 2016 Acura ILX Tech Plus A-Spec
![2016 Acura ILX A-SPEC Package is an excellent road car and a fun daily commuter.](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/16ILX_024-370x247.jpg)
Engine: 2.4-liter 4-cylinder gas, 201 horsepower, 180 lb-ft torque
Transmission: 8-speed automatic transmission, front-wheel-drive
EPA Ratings: 25/City—36/Highway—29/Combined
Base Price: $34,890
As Tested: $35,810
Performance:
Strong, lively engine
Excellent fuel economy
We got 40.0 and 37.8 on highway trips
Excellent dual-clutch 8-speed automatic
Paddle shifters
Comfortable highway ride
![2016 Acura ILX A-SPEC Package is available with one engine, a 201-hp VTEC four cylinder backed by an 8-speed automatic transmission.](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/16ILX_069-370x247.jpg)
Athletic, fun to drive
Excellent safety features
Lane departure warning
Blind spot monitoring
Adaptive cruise control
Road departure mitigation
Forward collision warning
Lane keeping assist system
Comfort:
Very nice front seats
Soft headrests
Reasonable front seat legroom, but not stretch-out
Very tight back seat if front seats are all back
Power driver’s seat
Tight driver headroom unless seat is reclined some
![The supportive front seats and thick steering wheel are excellent.](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/16ILX_128-370x247.jpg)
Two-temp heated front seats
Thick, contoured steering wheel
Excellent auxiliary controls
Utility:
Wide trunk opening
High lift-over height
Flat trunk floor
Seatback release in trunk
Non-split rear seat folds flat
Ample pass-through opening
Medium size storage tray under floor
One seatback storage pouch
![Rear seat leg and head room are a little tight.](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/16ILX_131-370x247.jpg)
Small front door bins
Medium size console bin
Large, locking glovebox
Two large info/entertainment/navigation screens
Wow Factors:
Excellent state-of-the-art safety/driver assist features
Impressive fuel economy for a non-hybrid
Great 8-speed automatic transmission
Sporty styling
Whines:
Not crazy about odd looking 5 projector headlight bulbs
![2016 Acura ILX A-SPEC Package.](https://autoreviewers.com/wp-content/uploads/2015/08/16ILX_098-370x247.jpg)
I hit my head getting into back seat
Overall interior space is snug
No lumbar adjustment
Bottom Line:
The 2016 Acura ILX is the entry-level Acura based on the Honda Civic. As such it is rather compact inside and out. Its compact size and 201-hp engine and excellent dual-clutch 8-speed automatic make it fun to drive. The surprise bonus is outstanding fuel economy.
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